Defining the Artificial Lift System Selection Guidelines for Horizontal Wells

Abstract

This study presents a methodology to define the most adequate artificial lift technique based on the method limitation itself, suitability coefficient (based on an attributes table) and economic analysis towards horizontal wells configuration. The technical limitations of each method have been determined based on physical principles and experience reported in open literature. An attribute matrix has been generated based on the information provided in open literature. A breakdown of operational and capital cost is proposed to compare the equivalent cost of each method based on how long the method will last and how often well interventaions are required. A field example is presented to demonstrate the use of the proposed methodology.

Optimal planning of artificial lift operations in a shale gas multiwell pad

“…The input data are inferred and adapted from already published works. 7,15,22,28 Tables 2, 3, and 4 present the input data used for all the case studies. The main results and the computational performance of the model are presented in the following sections.…”

“…Valbuena et al 15 state that the most common applicable methods in gas wells are velocity string, plunger lift, foam lift, gas lift, wellhead compression, sucker road pump, jet pump, electrical submersible pump and progressing cavity pump. Oyewole and Lea 11 explain that the horizontal wells may be considered as the most difficult wellbore type to dewater.…”

“…In addition, Valbuena et al 15 present ALS selection guidelines for horizontal wells, based on the limitations of each method, a suitability coefficient (from their attributes) and economic analysis. The methodology includes three screenings: (i) elimination of unsuitable options, (ii) comparison between ALS, including a more detailed table of attributes and horizontal wells aspects, and (iii) economic evaluation.…”

Artificial lift infrastructure planning of shale gas horizontal wells considering endogenous and exogenous uncertainties

“…ALMs can be divided into passive and active systems. 12 Passive systems (velocity strings, plunger lift, and foam lift) take advantage of the reservoir's remaining energy to remove the liquids from the wellbore (Figure 1). Active systems (sucker rod pump, wellhead compressors, and gas lift) add energy and are generally implemented once the reservoir pressure drops below the wellhead pressure (Figure 1).…”

“…Weatherford 19 compiled the operational limits of common ALMs used for gas well deliquification. Another expert system was developed by Valbuena et al 12 It first eliminates ALMs using guidelines that consider the physical limitations, field experience, and the operational envelopes of the ALMs. The remaining ALMs are screened, considering 24 attributes weighed on a scale from 1 to 10 defined by the operators.…”